Pest in Duitsland 1528

This German pendant by Ulrich Gebhart depicts scenes related to the plague, a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of disease. Observe the prominent symbol of the serpent intertwined around a staff, which appears alongside images of saints. This symbol, often associated with healing, has roots in ancient Greek mythology, where it represented Asclepius, the god of medicine. Yet, its presence here carries a complex weight. While it may symbolize hope for recovery, its juxtaposition with scenes of death and suffering evokes a deeper contemplation on the duality of life and mortality. The serpent, a recurring motif throughout history, appears in varied contexts. We see it in the Garden of Eden, a symbol of temptation and forbidden knowledge; and in the caduceus, entwined around Hermes' staff, representing commerce and negotiation. In this pendant, the serpent becomes a potent emblem of collective anxiety during times of crisis, an emotional and psychological anchor reminding us of humanity’s eternal struggle against unseen forces. This is a symbol that transcends time, continually resurfacing to reflect our deepest fears and aspirations.